Fun Activities to Establish a Back-to-School Routine
As the new school year approaches, it's crucial all children to establish a routine that will help ease their transition back to the classroom. Incorporating fun activities into this routine can make the process enjoyable and e ective. Here are some practical tips and engaging activities to help children get ready for school.
1. Start Early
Begin adjusting your child’s routine a few weeks before school starts. Gradually shift bedtime and wake-up times to align with the school schedule. Introduce this change with a fun bedtime story or a special morning breakfast to make the transition smoother.
2. Create Visual Schedules
Make a visual schedule that outlines daily activities using colorful pictures and words. Engage your child in a craft session where they can help design and decorate the schedule. Use sticks and bright markers for them to personalize.
3. Morning Routine Practice
Turn practicing the morning routine into a game. Set a timer and challenge your child to complete each step (like brushing teeth, getting dressed, and eating breakfast) within a certain time. Reward their e orts with a sticker or small prize to keep them motivated.
4. Host a Back-to-School Party
Organize a small back-to-school party with your child’s friends. Include fun activities like making DIY pencil toppers, decorating notebooks, or playing school-themed games. is social event can build excitement and positive associations with going back to school.
5. Engage in Educational Games
Play educational games that reinforce school skills. Apps, board games, and interactive toys that focus on numbers, letters, and problem-solving can make learning fun and help your child feel more prepared academically.
6. Stay Positive and Patient
Maintain a positive attitude and celebrate small successes with your child. Create a "Back-toSchool Countdown" where each day you do a fun activity together, like visiting the school playground or having a picnic with school-themed snacks. By starting early, incorporating engaging activities, and maintaining open communication with the school, you can create a structured and enjoyable environment for your child. ese strategies will help ensure that the transition back to school is a positive and manageable experience for your children.
Publisher:
Exceptional Kids, LLC
Owner & Managing Editor: Kameron Chicoine
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Valor Design, Inc.
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Egg-in-a-Hole
TOTAL TIME: 5 min.
YIELD: 1 servings.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 slice of your favorite kind of bread
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 egg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
DIRECTIONS
1. With a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass, press a hole in the center of the slice of bread.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and melt in the butter. When the butter is all spread out, place the slice of bread in the skillet and crack the egg straight into the center of the hole.
3. Cook until the egg sets a bit on the bottom, 30 to 45 seconds. Sprinkle the egg with salt and pepper. After about a minute, flip it over with a spatula and salt and pepper the other side.
4. Move the toast around in the skillet, soaking up all of the glorious butter. Let it cook until the yolk feels soft. Here's the key: golden brown toast, white (not browned/burned) whites, soft unbroken yolk. Perfect.
Recipe Courtesy of Ree Drummond
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com
ABA THERAPY
Apara Autism Centers
844-272-7223
1922 Dry Creek Way Suite 2-101 info@AparaAutism.com www.AparaAutism.com
◆Autism Treatment Center 210-590-2107
15911 Nacogdoches Rd Building 2 www.atcoftexas.org
Bloom Behavior & Educational Solutions 210-643-1119 1850 Lockhill Selma Suite 106 www.bloom-aba.net
Cole Academy - ABA Solutions 210-891-0800
1202 E Sonterra, Blvd 6, Suite 609 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
Cole Academy - ABA Solutions 830-420-6200
6051 FM 3009, Suite 215 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
Mindcolor Autism
833-646-3222
8507 Culebra Rd Suite 101 info@mindcolorautism www.mindcolorautism.com
ACUTE/SKILLED CARE
LifeSpan Home Health
877-434-3153
6243 IH-10 W Suite 375 www.lifespantx.com
ADAPTIVE SPORTS (COMPETITIVE & RECREATIONAL)
◆Kinetic Kids 210-748-5860 11931 Starcrest Dr info@kinetickidstx.org www.kinetickidstx.org
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
◆Pathways Youth & Family Services Pg 4 210-733-7117 1919 NW Loop 410 Suite 201 www.pathway.org
CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE
◆Artvango Therapeutic Services Inc. 210-387-2218
3201 Cherry Ridge Suite B202 artvangosa@gmail.com artvango.org
COUNSELING PROVIDERS
◆Artvango Therapeutic Services Inc. 210-387-2218
3201 Cherry Ridge Suite B202 artvangosa@gmail.com artvango.org
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu
COUNSELING PROVIDERS
(cont'd)
Catholic Charities
210-377-1133
San Fernando Community Center 231 W Commerce
DEAF SERVICES
uDeaf Interpreter Services, Inc. 210-545-2946
15600 San Pedro Ave #302 info@deaf-interpreter.com www.Deaf-Interpreter.com
DURABLE
MEDICAL EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES
Wave Healthcare Pg 3 866-935-9283
121 Interpark Blvd #300 www.wavehealthcare.com
EDUCATION ADVOCACY RESOURCES
uEpilepsy Foundation Central & South Texas 210-653-5353
8601 Village Dr, Suite 220 staff@efcst.org www.efcst.org
EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
uEpilepsy Foundation Central & South Texas 210-653-5353
8601 Village Dr, Suite 220 staff@efcst.org www.efcst.org
uFACT Institute, Inc. 210-267-9134
13032 Nacogdoches Rd #207 life@factinstituteinc.com www.factinstituteinc.com
uThe Winston School of San Antonio 210-615-6544 8565 Ewing Halsell Dr www.winston-sa.org
FINANCIAL
SERVICES
Catholic Charities 210-293-1009
202 W. French Place www.ccaosa.org
FOSTER CARE AND ADOPTION
uPathways Youth & Family Services Pg 4 210-733-7117
1919 NW Loop 410 Suite 201 www.pathway.org
Crisis Intervention (Foster Care Only) 1-866-912-6283 (press *) 1919 NW Loop 410 Suite 201 www.pathway.org
GENERAL COMMUNITY RESOURCES
www.unitedwaysatx.org
2-1-1 Texas is a free, anonymous social service hotline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Alamo Local Authority Intellectual & Disability Services (IDD) Phone: (210) 832-5020 Fax: 1-866-689-1843 2700 NE Loop 410 Suite 101 iddservices@aacog.com http://www.aacog.com
City of San Antonio - Utility Assistance 210-207-7830
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu
GENERAL COMMUNITY RESOURCES
uEpilepsy Foundation Central & South Texas
210-653-5353
8601 Village Dr, Suite 220 staff@efcst.org www.efcst.org
Hill Country MHDD Centers 358 Landa Street, Suite 300, New Braunfels 888-315-3277 http://www.hillcountry.org
Kerr County MH Center 955 Water Street, Kerrville 888-445-5232 http://www.hillcountry.org
Project Warm - Bexar County Dept of Community Assistance 210-335-3666
Salvation Army 210-226-2291
226 Nolan St
San Antonio Food Bank 210-337-3663
5200 Old Hwy 90 West
Society of St. Vincent de Paul 210-225-7837 WIC Program 210-207-4906
LOCAL IDD AUTHORITY (LIDDA) FOR BEXAR COUNTY
AACOG IDD Services - Alamo Area Council of Governments: Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Services 210-832-5020
2700 NE Loop 410 Suite 101 https://www.aacog.com/66/Intellectual-Developmental-Disability-Se
MEDICAL CARE
uEpilepsy Foundation Central & South Texas 210-653-5353
8601 Village Dr, Suite 220 staff@efcst.org www.efcst.org
MEDICAID WAIVER PROGRAMS
CDS in Texas
210-798-3779 Toll Free 866-675-7331 www.cdstexas.com
CLASS - Medically Dependent Children's Program 877-438-5658
DBMD-Deaf/Blind Multiple Disabilities Program 877-438-5658
Disability Services of the Southwest 210-798-0123
6243 IH-10 West Suite 114 www.dsswtx.org
HCS - Home & Community-Based Services Program 210-832-5020
MDCP - Medically Dependent Children's Program 877-438-5658
LifeSpan Home Health
2 877-434-3153
6243 IH-10 W Suite 375 www.lifespantx.com
Texas Home Living Waiver 210-832-5020
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu
NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
American Red Cross 210-224-5151
Cerebral Palsy Foundation ucp.org 210-520-1686
uEpilepsy Foundation 24/7 Helpline 1-800-332-1000 (en espanol 1-866-748-8008) www.epilepsy.com
Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) 800-572-1717
National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI), SA 210-734-3349
National Down Syndrome Society 800-221-4602 www.ndss.org
Scleroderma Foundation www.Sclerodema.org
Spinal Bifida Association Texas Chapter 972-238-8755
Williams Syndrome 800-806-1871 www.Williams-syndrome.org
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
uAutism Treatment Center 210-590-2107
15911 Nacogdoches Rd, Building 2 www.atcoftexas.org
CHCS-ECI (Early Childhood Intervention) Specializing in Infants & Toddlers, Birth to 36 Months Easy to refer, no medical referral needed Call 210-261-3300 or visit www.chcs-eci.org Medicaid, CHIP, Private, all insurances accepted Sliding scale available
Cole Pediatric Therapy 210-891-0800
1202 E Sonterra, Blvd 6, Suite 609 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
Cole Pediatric Therapy 830-420-6200
6051 FM 3009, Suite 215 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
San Rafael Healthcare Inc
210-255-1466 4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com
PEDIATRIC HOME HEALTH & PRIVATE DUTY NURSING Entrusted Pediatric Home Care
512-591-0796 111 W Anderson Lane, Suite E322, Austin www.entrustedphc.com
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care
210-447-1650
4502 Centerview Dr, Suite 233, San Antonio www.entrustedphc.com
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care
254-207-0887
2027 S 61st Street, Suite 121, Temple www.entrustedphc.com
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care
469-827-7500
275 W Campbell Rd, Richardson www.entrustedphc.com
San Rafael Healthcare Inc
210-255-1466 4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com
PHYSICAL THERAPY
CHCS-ECI (Early Childhood Intervention)
Specializing in Infants & Toddlers, Birth to 36 Months Easy to refer, no medical referral needed Call 210-261-3300 or visit www.chcs-eci.org
Medicaid, CHIP, Private, all insurances accepted Sliding scale available
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu PHYSICAL THERAPY
Cole Academy - ABA Solutions
210-891-0800
1202 E Sonterra, Blvd 6, Suite 609 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
Cole Academy - ABA Solutions 830-420-6200 6051 FM3004, Suite 215 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
San Rafael Healthcare Inc
12 210-255-1466 4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com
San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department 210-207-3018
SCHOOLS
uThe Winston School of San Antonio 210-615-6544 8565 Ewing Halsell Dr www.winston-sa.org
SCHOOL/JOB TRAINING FOR SPECIAL NEEDS
uFact Institute Inc 210-267-9134
13032 Nacogdoches #207 life@factinstituteinc.com www.factinstituteinc.com
SPECIAL NEEDS ADULTS
uMarbridge Foundation 512-282-1144
2310 Bliss Spillar Road, Manchaca TX info@marbridge.org Marbridge.org
SPEECH THERAPY
uAutism Treatment Center 210-590-2107 15911 Nacogdoches Rd, Building 2 www.atcoftexas.org
CHCS-ECI (Early Childhood Intervention) Specializing in Infants & Toddlers, Birth to 36 Months Easy to refer, no medical referral needed Call 210-261-3300 or visit www.chcs-eci.org Medicaid, CHIP, Private, all insurances accepted Sliding scale available
Cole Pediatric Therapy 210-891-0800 1202 E Sonterra, Blvd 6, Suite 609 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
Cole Pediatric Therapy 830-420-6200 6051 FM 3009, Suite 215 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
San Rafael Healthcare Inc Pg 12 210-255-1466 4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com
STATE ORGANIZATIONS
Customer Service Line (Ombudsman) 877-787-8999 www.hhsc.state.tx.us
Department of Assistive & Rehabilitative Services NOW Texas Work Force www.twc.state.tx.us
North Field Office 210-561-8600 12000 Network Blvd #210
West Field Office 210-522-8010 5309 Wurzbach, Suite 102
Northeast Field Office 210-590-5740 10303 Nacogdoches
South Field Office 210-927-8300 1011 Ada St
DENTAL DIRECTORY
PEDIATRIC DENTISTS
David Ferguson, DDS, CAGS 210-697-7377 14620 Huebner Rd Believe Dental
Kristopher Bennion DMD 830-625-1234 610 Landa St New Braunfels Childrens Dental Ark
Pablo Medina DDS 210-697-7377 14620 Huebner Rd Believe Dental
Dr. Karan Shah, DMD 210-697-7377 14620 Huebner RdBelieve Dental
Nelly Gonzales DDS 210-679-4747 9646 W Loop 1604 N Dentistry for Little Folks
Sheila Hernandez-Dum DMD 210-694-2700 8202 N Loop 1604 Ste 104 Childrens Dentistry
Jennifer Ochoa DDS 210-679-4747 9646 W Loop 1604 N Dentistry for Little Folks
Cheryl Sellers DDS 830-625-1234 610 Landa St New Braunfels Childrens Dental Ark
Have you ever been to the movies and your child has a huge meltdown? It’s a disaster your child is overstimulated by the loud sound, dark theatre and bright screen. And you are thinking here we go again… You try to calm your child down, but nothing seems to work. Other movie goers are giving you that look, the one that says, "Do something with that kid." Sometimes, someone even says, "That child could use some discipline." So, you sit out in the lobby and wait while the rest of your family enjoys the movie. That was me. Was I a bad parent? No, my child had sensory processing disorder (SPD).
A Parent’s
their skin. Others may be uncoordinated, bump into things, or have difficulty engaging in conversation or play. SPD can affect one or multiple senses and exists on a spectrum.
Strategies for Parents Preparation is Key
It became difficult to go anywhere without a meltdown. Finally, I heard about sensory integration disorder. Through research and practical strategies, we were able to minimize the meltdowns. Over the years, our daughter developed her own strategies to handle the overload. I want to share what we have learned to help others in similar situations.
Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder
SPD is a condition where the brain struggles to receive and respond to sensory information. Some children are oversensitive to their environment, where common sounds might be painful, or the light touch of a shirt might chafe
Before heading to potentially overwhelming places, prepare your child by discussing what to expect. Visual schedules or social stories can help them understand the sequence of events and reduce anxiety. It they are old enough let them know a timeframe of how long you will be at each place.
Bring Comfort Items
Having familiar items, like a favorite toy or blanket, can help soothe your child if they become overwhelmed. These items provide a sense of security in unfamiliar or overstimulating environments.
Allow for Breaks
Identify quiet areas in places like stores or parks where your child can take
Perspective
breaks. A brief respite from sensory input can help them regroup and prevent a meltdown.
Use Sensory-Friendly Products
Noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, or fidget toys can help manage sensory inputs. These tools can make overwhelming environments more tolerable for your child.
Create a Routine
Establishing a routine can provide predictability and security. Consistent routines help children with SPD know what to expect, reducing anxiety and sensory overload.
Ideas for School Teachers
Sensory-Friendly Classroom
Create a sensory-friendly environment by providing noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, or a quiet corner where students can take breaks. Soft lighting and reduced clutter can also help.
Understanding and Patience
Educate yourself about SPD and the specific needs of your students. Be patient and understanding, recognizing that behaviors are often a response to sensory overload, not intentional disruptions.
Clear Instructions
Provide clear, concise instructions and use visual aids to help children understand and follow along. Visual schedules and cues can assist in maintaining a structured and predictable environment.
Flexible Seating
Offer flexible seating options like wiggle cushions, therapy balls, or standing desks. Allowing students to choose where they feel most comfortable can improve their focus and engagement.
Regular Breaks
Incorporate regular sensory breaks into the day. Activities like stretching, jumping jacks, or a quick walk can help students regulate their sensory input and improve concentration.
Encouraging Stories
Like my daughter, many children with SPD can learn to manage their sensory issues with the right support and strategies. Advocacy and the right resources are crucial. Occupational therapy and sensory integration techniques can make a significant difference. It's essential to work closely with therapists, pediatricians, and teachers to create a supportive environment for your child.
Conclusion
Dealing with sensory processing disorder as a parent can be challenging, but it doesn’t mean you’re a bad parent. With understanding, patience, and practical strategies, you can help your child navigate their sensory environment successfully. Sharing your journey and educating others about SPD can offer hope and guidance to other parents and ensure that children receive the comprehensive support they need. Your dedication to your child’s wellbeing is commendable, and together, we can make the world a more understanding and accommodating place for children with sensory processing disorders.
PHYSICIAN DIRECTORY
Physician Phone # Address Office
Christine Aune MD
Isabel M Basaldu-Prado MD
Michael A Battista MD
Timothy Biela MD
5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
Cynthia L Blanco MD 210-358-1593 4502
Katherine Brandt MD
Joseph Cantey MD
Cynthia E Casteel MD 210-433-0366 2515 Castroville Rd Ste 2 Aguirre Practice of Pediatrics
Mark H Croley MD 210-916-4244 3851 Roger Brooke Dr SAMMC
Heather Delaney MD 210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
Lindsay DeVries MD
Leslie-Ann Dietrich MD
Susan A Dotzler MD
Matthew Egalka MD
Clarissa DeLeon MD 210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
210-541-8281 333 North Santa Rosa St Childrens Hospital of SA
210-358-1593 4502 Medical Dr University Health System
210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
San Juanita Garza-Cox MD 210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
Robert K Gillette MD 210-921-8620 7400 Barlite Blvd Southwest General Hospital
Alice K Gong MD
210-358-1593 4502 Medical Dr University Health System
Cody L Henderson MD 210-541-8281 333 North Santa Rosa St Childrens Hospital of SA
Antonio Hernandez MD 210-358-1593 4502 Medical Dr University Health System
Bernd Holler MD
John Isaac MD
210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
David T Lam MD
Jaclyn M LeVan DO
Michelle Meza MD
Blanca C Molina MD
Alvaro G Moreira MD
Maribel Morgan MD
Cheryl Motta MD
Michael Odom MD
Amil Ortiz MD
Timothy Pappoe MD
Jeffrey V Paul MD
Jean A Petershack MD
Maria Pierce MD
Brent Reyburn DO
Amy R Quinn
Steven Seidner MD
Katharine Johnson MD 210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
Alexander B Kenton MD 210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 San Antonio Pediatric
210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
210-358-1593 4502 Medical Dr University Health System
210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
210-541-8281 333 North Santa Rosa St Childrens Hospital of SA
210-358-1593 4502 Medical Dr University Health System
210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
210-541-8281 600 Union Street CHRISTUS Santa Rosa-New Braunfels
210-358-1593 4502 Medical Dr University Health System
210-541-8281 333 North Santa Rosa St Childrens Hospital of SA
210-541-8281 5430 Fredericksburg Rd #508 Pediatrix Medical Group
210-358-1593 4502 Medical Dr University Health System
210-358-1593 4502 Medical Dr University Health System
EK96_19-19.indd 1 10/16/23 9:46 AM We always love hearing from our readers: Just want you to know your EK magazine is a welcome sight! I'm sitting in the atrium at North Central Baptist hospital after visiting my 12 year old grandson in the pediatric ICU. You do a great job with the magazine! Keep up the good work, please. ~~Granny Sue